O&M sets up LGBT employee network in Hong Kong

The network, led by O&M strategy, planning and measurement APAC MD Marion McDonald, aims to champion diversity in the workplace, in addition to being a client facing group of consultants to help brands understand and tap into LGBT audiences in the territory.

“First and foremost, this is an employee network for our people,” said Ogilvy & Mather Hong Kong CEO Adam O’Conor.

“We want to celebrate diversity in the workplace, particularly at a time we are seeing such a shift in social attitudes towards the LGBT community.

“Last month’s study by the Equal Opportunities Commission on the need for local legislation against LGBT discrimination is a great step forward. And with Ogilvy Pride we also see an important opportunity to help brands connect with the LGBT community – a consumer group that has previously gone unrecognised”.

McDonald said: “It’s a natural fit for creative agencies to lead the commercial sector by celebrating and promoting LGBT diversity in the workplace. Companies that can attract, nurture and retain LGBT talent to advance their business aims will draw ahead of their rivals in a tough labour market like Hong Kong that attracts a lot of international talent.”

The launch of Ogilvy Pride coincides with O&M’s sponsorship as global content partner for The Economist’s upcoming “Pride & Prejudice” conference being held on 3 March in Hong Kong.